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Chipotle Ground Beef Soup
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Chipotle Ground Beef Soup

This hearty and smoky Chipotle Ground Beef Soup is a flavor-packed dish inspired by Mexican cuisine. Ground beef is seasoned and simmered with chipotle peppers, aromatic spices, beans, and vegetables to create a bold and comforting soup. Perfect for chilly nights or when you're craving something spicy and satisfying, it’s easy to prepare and adaptable to your taste.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican-inspired
Keyword Comfort Food, Gluten-Free, Spicy
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 280kcal
Cost $12-$15

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef’s knife and cutting board
  • Can opener
  • Ladle

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Ground beef Use lean for less grease, or adjust fat content to taste.
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chopped.
  • 2 Cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 medium Bell pepper Diced; red or green recommended.
  • 2 tsp Ground cumin Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
  • 1 tsp Paprika For extra depth and color.
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano Mexican oregano preferred if available.
  • 1 can Chipotle peppers in adobo (7 oz) Adjust quantity to taste (start with 1-2 peppers).
  • 1 can Diced tomatoes (14 oz) Fire-roasted recommended.
  • 1 can Black beans (15 oz) Drained and rinsed.
  • 1 cup Corn kernels Fresh, frozen, or canned (drained).
  • 4 cups Beef broth Adjust salt as needed with low-sodium broth.
  • 2 tbsp Tomato paste Enhances richness.
  • 1 medium Zucchini Diced; optional for added veggies.
  • 1/2 tsp Salt To taste.
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper Freshly ground preferred.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro Chopped, for garnish.
  • Lime wedges Optional, for serving.
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt Optional, for topping.

Instructions

  • Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
    Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  • Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
    Add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into small crumbles. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed
  • Step 3: Add Spices and Chipotle Flavor
    Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, and oregano. Stir to coat the beef mixture evenly with spices. Chop 1-2 chipotle peppers from the can (or more if desired for extra heat) and add them to the pot along with 1-2 teaspoons of the adobo sauce. Stir well.
  • Step 4: Build the Base
    Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and tomato paste. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Step 5: Add Beans, Corn, and Veggies
    Stir in the black beans, corn, and zucchini. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Step 6: Rest and Garnish
    Remove the pot from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or yogurt, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.

Notes

 

  • Chipotle Peppers: If you prefer milder heat, use only the adobo sauce and omit the peppers themselves. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeño.
  • Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for plant-based meat or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth.
  • Additional Toppings: Crumbled tortilla chips, shredded cheese, or avocado slices make excellent toppings.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.